Let’s Dive into NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of scope rings, from the bomb-proof expensive ones to the downright scary cheap options. Today, we’re looking at something that sits squarely on the budget end of the spectrum: the NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24. NcSTAR is known for offering affordable alternatives, and this scope ring promises to provide a solution for mounting optics without breaking the bank.
My journey to these rings began when I needed a set of high rings for a project rifle – a budget AR-15 build intended for recreational shooting. I wanted to mount a 30mm scope but also have the flexibility to use a 1-inch tube optic with the included inserts, without investing heavily in high-end mounting solutions.
Unboxing these rings, my initial impression was… utilitarian. The matte finish looked decent, and the aluminum construction felt reasonably solid for the price, although not as robust as some of the higher-end steel rings I’m used to. The inclusion of the 1-inch aluminum inserts was a nice touch, offering versatility right out of the box.
I considered rings from UTG and CVLife, both of which are in a similar price range. Ultimately, the NcSTAR rings won out because of the advertised height (high, which I needed for my specific optic setup) and the seemingly straightforward design. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping they would be “good enough” for my needs.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and reservation. Excited by the low price point and the prospect of a quick and easy scope mount, but reserved because, well, you often get what you pay for.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested these rings at my local shooting range, mounting them on my AR-15 to secure a 30mm tactical scope. The weather was mild and dry, ideal conditions for testing equipment. Installation was relatively straightforward, attaching to the Weaver rail on my flattop upper receiver without much fuss.
However, I immediately noticed that the screws felt a bit soft, requiring careful tightening to avoid stripping. The rings seemed to grip the scope tube adequately, but I definitely felt the need to be extra cautious when torquing them down. After zeroing the rifle at 100 yards, the scope seemed to hold its position.
There were no catastrophic failures on the first outing, but the slightly flimsy feel of the screws raised a concern about long-term reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and approximately 500 rounds fired, the NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24 have held up… mostly. The finish has remained intact, showing minimal wear and tear. The rings have maintained their grip on the scope tube, with no noticeable slippage or movement.
However, my initial concerns about the screws proved valid. One of the screws on the base of one ring stripped despite my best efforts. I had to replace it with a higher-quality screw from my own supply to maintain a secure mount. Cleaning has been simple – a quick wipe down with a cloth after each range session.
Compared to my experiences with more expensive scope rings, these NcSTAR rings are definitely a step down in terms of overall quality and confidence. They’ve performed adequately for my intended purpose (recreational shooting), but I wouldn’t trust them on a rifle intended for serious hunting or tactical use.
Breaking Down the Features of NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24
Specifications
The NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24 is designed for mounting scopes with either 30mm or 1-inch tubes onto Weaver-style rails. The rings are classified as “High,” meaning they provide ample clearance for larger objective lenses and accessories like EoTech magnifiers. They come as a pair.
The rings are constructed from aluminum with a matte black finish. The “High” designation is important because it determines compatibility with your scope and rifle setup, especially if you have a large objective lens or need to clear iron sights. The included 1-inch aluminum inserts allow flexibility in scope selection.
The most critical specs are the tube diameter (30mm/1 inch), the mounting rail type (Weaver), and the ring height (High). These determine compatibility with your existing equipment.
Performance & Functionality
For recreational shooting and light use, the NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24 perform adequately. They hold the scope securely enough for consistent accuracy at moderate ranges. The inclusion of the 1-inch inserts increases their versatility.
However, their primary weakness lies in the quality of the hardware. The screws are prone to stripping, which can compromise the security of the mount. This makes them unsuitable for high-stress applications or where absolute reliability is paramount.
They meet the basic expectation of holding a scope on a rifle, but they don’t exceed those expectations in any way. The screws need improvement.
Design & Ergonomics
The rings are straightforward in design, with a simple split-ring configuration and a basic Weaver-style base. The matte black finish is aesthetically acceptable, blending in well with most rifles and scopes. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, which is a plus for lightweight builds.
There is virtually no learning curve involved in mounting these rings. They are easy to install and adjust, even for novice shooters. The inserts are easily installed or removed for switching between 30mm and 1-inch scopes.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction is reasonably durable for light use, but the weak point is undoubtedly the screws. The rings themselves should last a reasonable amount of time with proper care.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry cloth. However, replacing the screws with higher-quality alternatives is highly recommended to improve long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24 comes with the 1-inch aluminum inserts as its only accessory. There are no other factory customization options.
However, you can potentially replace the screws with higher-quality alternatives if needed. These rings are generally compatible with any scope designed for 30mm or 1-inch tubes and Weaver-style mounts.
Pros and Cons of NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24
Pros
- Low price point makes it an accessible option for budget builds.
- Versatile design allows for mounting both 30mm and 1-inch scopes.
- High ring height provides ample clearance for larger objective lenses and accessories.
- Lightweight aluminum construction doesn’t add significant weight to the rifle.
- Easy to install and adjust, even for novice users.
Cons
- Low-quality screws are prone to stripping and can compromise the mount’s security.
- Aluminum construction, while lightweight, is not as durable as steel alternatives.
- May not be suitable for high-stress applications or where absolute reliability is required.
Who Should Buy NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24?
These scope rings are perfect for budget-conscious shooters building a recreational AR-15 or other rifle where absolute precision and durability are not critical. They’re also suitable for shooters who need a temporary or backup mounting solution. They could work for a casual plinker.
However, anyone planning on using their rifle for serious hunting, tactical applications, or competitive shooting should skip these rings and invest in a higher-quality mounting solution. Survivalists looking for bomb-proof reliable gear should look elsewhere.
A must-have modification is to replace the included screws with higher-quality steel screws.
Conclusion on NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24
The NcSTAR Scope Ring – 30mm Weaver Ring / 1 inch Aluminum Inserts High R24 offers an affordable entry point into the world of scope mounting. It delivers basic functionality and versatility at a budget-friendly price. It is from NcSTAR.
The price is justified given its basic functionality. However, the low-quality screws are a significant drawback that must be considered.
I would recommend it with reservations. If you understand its limitations and are willing to replace the screws, it can serve its purpose. If you need absolute reliability or plan on subjecting your rifle to harsh conditions, invest in a higher-quality alternative. If you’re on a tight budget, give it a try, but be prepared to upgrade later.